M E M O R A N D U M

TO:

All University Faculty Members

FROM:

Vice Provost Gretchen Ritter

DATE:

September 4, 2009

SUBJECT:

H1N1/Class Absences, Fall 2009 Guidelines

Fall 2009 is expected to be an active influenza season with the risk of both seasonal
and novel H1N1 flu viruses. University communities are particularly vulnerable to the
spread of illness. While students have been instructed to stay away from campus if they
have symptoms, there is concern that some will come to class because of attendance rules,
risking further spread of the virus. In an effort to mitigate this risk, and in light
of University Health Services recommendation that students self isolate if they show signs
of illness, it is important that faculty be flexible with students who miss class due to
influenza-related illness. The Dean of Students Office will assist with notification of
faculty and verification for students who are absent due to illness. Students that visit
University Health Services will receive verification of their visit. However, some students
may not be able to verify their illness since they may be advised to stay home when ill unless
their symptoms warrant further treatment. Faculty should be flexible in such cases.

We recommend that faculty provide this website link to their students and communicate the
following information to their classes as well:

Students who are ill with flu-like symptoms should NOT come to class or have close
contact with other students (e.g., study groups). They should NOT return to class until 24
hours after fever has abated. (Faculty should follow the same guidelines.)

Faculty may wish to refer to the Honor Code to remind students that both abuse of a more
lenient absence policy and attendance in class while contagious are incompatible with our code
of individual responsibility.

If students have the following "influenza-like" symptoms, they should call the UHS 24-Hour
Nurse Advice Line at (512) 475-6877. Professional nurses will help students determine whether
or when they need to see a healthcare provider and what to do to feel better.